AF Decom has been commissioned by the Norwegian Coastal Administration to remove the wreck of the former cruiser, “Murmansk.” The method proposed is considered the safest according to health, environment, and technical feasibility.
On the 24th of December, 1994, the Russian cruiser broke free while being towed, and partially sank outside a small village, on an island on the north coast of Norway. This seas are very rough and the area is subject to extreme weather conditions.
In short, the AF strategy consists of the dry dock demolition and removal of the wreck where it lies. This will be done by establishing breakwaters and constructing a dry dock around the “Murmansk” wreck. The water will then be pumped out of the dry dock so the wreck will be dry. Then construction machinery will then break down the cruiser, and sort different demolition materials to be shipped out to waste and recycling facilities.
The AF method has several advantages including:
*Eliminates the risk and uncertainty involved in underwater operations and lifting.
*Minimizes the risk with respect to health, safety and security.
*Minimizes weather limitations during the demolition process.
*Uses reputable and proven methods and principles of the construction and demolition industries.
The contract is concluded between the Norwegian Coastal Administration and the demolition company AF Decom AS. The contract cost is NOK 238,950,000. (Excl. VAT). The mission is carried out in collaboration with another business unit in the AF Group, AF Anlegg Harbour.
Photos of the wreck can be somewhat misleading since most of the structure is hidden below water. An image of a similar museum is shown below to give an indication of the size.
Picture of the wreck of "Murmansk" at Sørvær.
Picture of the museum ship "Mikhail Kutuzov" at the Black Sea in Russia
